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Architectus Conrad Gargett has revitalised Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, through a decade-long renovation that honours its architectural heritage. Designed by Italian architect Arturo Mezzèdimi in 1961, the building is a modernist masterpiece pivotal in African history.
The renovation followed a Conservation Management Strategy, ensuring alterations respected the hall’s historical and cultural significance. Extensive research into Mezzèdimi’s original plans guided the restoration of key features, including the reinforced concrete structure, mosaic tiles, and stained-glass artwork by Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle. Thirteen million new tiles were crafted to match the originals, while Tekle’s 150-square-metre stained glass was restored by the original craftsman’s grandson.
Modern interventions, such as a reconfigured Assembly Hall for 55 member states and spaces clad in zinc shingles, reflect a commitment to functionality and sustainability. This renovation preserves the architectural integrity of Africa Hall and enhances its role as a contemporary cultural and conference venue.
The restoration of Africa Hall has been done with respectful detail and an understanding of the original design intent of the structure and materials. A commendable effort was made to reverse contradictory historical alternations with considerable reconstruction to reinstate the original architecture. The addition of understated colors and textures is a wonderful complement to the strong formal and structural gestures. The subtle lighting and formal landscape likewise complement the renovation to reconnect Africa Hall to its urban context.
David Gole, Principal in Charge
Simon Boundy, Project Leader
Luke Blake, Team member
Bayable Ewnetu, Team member
Candace Christensen, Team member
Mewded Wolde, Team member
Chris Wardle, Team member
Matthew Hughes, Team member
Liehan Janse van Rensburg, Team member
Geoff Cordingley, Team Member
Ben Grassick, Team member
Russel Obst, Team member
Claire Schofield, Team member
Lindy Shaw, Team member
Megan Randerson, Team member
Luke Pendergast, Team member
Telmaco, AV Consultant
Atelier Thomas Vitraux, Stained Glass Restoration Contractor
Centro Conservazione e Restauro La Venaria Reale, Canvas and Linen Artworks Restoration Contractor
Built Environment Collective, Engineering – Structural, Civil, Hydraulics (Design and Construction Support); Mechanical and Electrical (Construction Support)
Greenleaf Engineers, Engineering – Mechanical and Electrical (Design)
WSP, Engineering – AV, Fire, Security, VT, Acoustic (Design and Construction Support)
Rider Levett Bucknall, Quantity Surveyor
GT Consulting Engineers, Structural & Civil Engineer (Local)
Fastek Consult, Electrical Engineer (Local)
San-Mech Consult PLC, Mechanical & Hydraulic Engineer (Local)
Purple Apple Access, Accessibility Consultant